Lions learn of tourism appeal of Lorain County

Michele VanWormer, membership and sales manager for Visit Lorain County, spoke to Lorain Lions on July 23 about the tourism appeal of Lorain County, particularly its waterfront, shopping, concerts and arts.

Brickbats and Bouquets: Morning Journal lauds sons of Lion Ben and Jane Norton

Published Thursday, July 16, in the The Morning Journal opinion column, Brickbats and Bouquets

BOUQUETS: To the three sons of Lorain community leaders Ben and Jane Norton, who successfully completed a grueling Ironman competition in scorching temperatures June 28 in Cour d’alene, Idaho, on a rugged, ruthless course totaling 140.6 miles.

What an accomplishment for the trio. Ben Norton Jr., 50, of Lorain, challenged his two brothers, Brad, 47, of Westlake, and Brent, 43, of Seattle, to join him in the 13th annual competition which took place on Ben Norton’s 50th birthday.

The demanding event began with a 2.4-mile swim in Lake Coeur d’Alene, followed by a 112-mile bike run and climaxing with a 26.2-mile marathon. Each brother finished all three legs of the competition within a 17-hour time frame. Brent finished first among his brothers, followed by Ben Jr. who was second and Brad was third. Jane Norton said the competition was a once-in-a-lifetime achievement for her family.

We stand with the Nortons to say we’re also proud of their accomplishments. They represented the International City very well at the competition.

Destination Cleveland Leader Updates Lions on RNC 2016 Plans

ABOVE: Mike Mulhall (left), Vice President of Partnerships for Destination Cleveland, presented a very informative and exciting overview of the plans underway for hosting the Republican National Convention in Cleveland in July, 2016 at the Lions July 2 dinner meeting.  Lion President Frank Csubak (above right) welcomed our guest speaker and conducted his first meeting as the new president of the Lorain Lions Club, 2015-2016.

Lions Volunteer at the New Second Harvest Food Bank

Lions Tim Lombardi, Dan Asensio, Ken Kayle and Barry Buck (along with Lion Ken Cromer not pictured) inspected, sorted and packed food on Tuesday, June 30 at the new, improved and larger facility recently completed by Second Harvest Food Bank on Baumhart Road.

Lake Erie Crushers Speak to Lions

ABOVE:  Alex Kowit of the Lake Erie Crushers spoke at the June 26 luncheon meeting of the Lorain Lions and gave an informative and upbeat insight into the team and the Frontier League.

Lorain Lions take part in 2015 Lorain International Parade

Thanks to all the Lorain Lions and friends who participated in Sunday's Lorain International Parade.

Lorain Lions Taste of Italia Impresses Italian Food and Wine Lovers

Lion John Volak by the door prize that every attendee had a chance to win.

Lion Ken Kayle opens the first bottle of white wine for the afternoon.

Lion Dave Meadows with friend show some of the wines they were serving.

Lion Ed Baker showing the polenta and sauce.

Committee members Lions Walter Frey (left) and Ed Baker show some of the awesome Italian food for sampling.

Lion Rich Foil's daughter  Kristen came from Columbus to help.

Lion John Gintonio served the Italian beers (for the non-wine drinkers) and sold tickets for the raffle prizes, two sets of outstanding wines!

THANKS TO OUR WONDERFUL SPONSORS!!

Committee Member Lion Tammy Tansey designed the promotional items and welcomed and guided guests to the wines and food.

Lion Tony Freda had a great time organizing and advising the Lions on how to make this a Top Notch wine and food tasting.

Lion Bruce McCartney and wife Kathy.

Lion Jack Clark admiring the wine raffle prizes.

ABOVE:  Committee member Lion Rich Foil with Councilman Frank DeTillio and Frank's wife Rosa.

ABOVE:  Patti Rebman (Owner of Rebman's On The Avenue) and Lion Tony Freda (Taste of Italia Committee Chair) put on a fabulous event.  Thanks to both for sharing their special knowledge and skills to make this event so enjoyable and successful!

ABOVE:  County Commissioner Ted Kalo enjoying food, drink and visiting.

AWESOME JOB COMMITTEE!